Hawaii!!!
If Oahu is the heart of Hawaii, then Honolulu is its racing pulse. In this cosmopolitan capital city, you’ll find everything from historic landmarks to fine dining to world-class shopping. Home to the majority of Oahu’s population, Honolulu stretches across the southeastern shores of the island, from Pearl Harbor to Makapuu Point, encompassing world-famous Waikiki Beach along the way.
From the airport to your hotel:
yes, I know all the options, but trust me - just rent a car. It's much more convenient, and way cheaper than a taxi.
yes, I know all the options, but trust me - just rent a car. It's much more convenient, and way cheaper than a taxi.
Things to See in Honolulu:
Beaches
Waikiki Beach. As the tourist center of the Hawaiian Islands, this white sand beach, framed by hotels and Diamond Head as a backdrop, is easily the most crowded. Waikiki is popular with a wide crowd, as it's a excellent place for swimming, sunbathers, catamaran and outrigger canoes, as well as a great spot for beginner surfers and body boarders (and there are plenty of surf schools set up in Waikiki for lessons). What's remarkable is that even in Waikiki you can find a fairly quiet beach; it's just a matter of knowing where to look.
Kuhio Beach. With an offshore retaining wall, this is a calmer section of beach that's great for families and beginner surfers. Along Kalakaua Avenue are four stones known as the Ancient Pohaku (Wizard Stones) which are believed to hold spiritual healing powers. There is also a statue of legendary surfer Duke Kahanamoku located here,
Ala Moana Park, a green space with plenty of trees and grass as well as an nice sandy beach that's popular with the locals and is perfect for families or a calmer swim.
Hanauma Bay, which is set in the crater of an extinct volcano, now open to the sea and filled with a coral reef. This is not the place for a good swim and certainly not the spot for surfing, but the calm water and abundance of marine life makes it excellent for snorkeling and scuba diving. Even if you don't get in the water, the scenery makes it a great place to sunbathe or picnic, although you may find parking to be an issue.
Halona Beach Cove, known as "the Peering Place". It is a small, rocky cove that has good swimming with the surf is calm, but no lifeguards here means it's at your own risk. Nearby Sandy Beach does have lifeguards, and has been popular with surfers and bodyboarders for decades. On a calm day, it can be good for a fun day of swimming. Makapu'u Beach, just a little further up the road, is quite scenic. It tends to have very large waves, meaning it many not be the best place to swim but a fantastic place to surf.
Pearl Harbor
Located in Western Honolulu and accessible by Bus #42 or #20, is well-remembered for 'December 7, 1941— "a date which will live in infamy" (President Franklin D. Roosevelt), when an attack by Japanese forces killed over 2,000 personnel and brought the U.S. military into World War II. Today the harbor, still functioning as a navy base, is the site of several memorials honoring the fallen of that day and the rest of the war. The centerpiece is the USS Arizona Memorial, which was built over the sunken hull of the USS Arizona battleship; the resting place of many who died that day. The memorial itself is accessed after an introductory movie and a short ferry ride, and lists the names of those lost as well as a chance to view the wreck. Time-stamped tickets (free) are needed to access the USS Arizona Memorial and can be obtained on the same day (get there early, ticket office opens at 7:45am) or in advance online for a small fee
Scenery
It's Hawai'i, so there's no shortage of natural scenery, even near the big city. For those looking for expansive vistas, Diamond Head is a good starting point - this ancient volcanic crater dominates over Waikiki and the top offers an incredible view over the city. After driving through a short tunnel, you can hike up a 0.75 mile (1.1 km) trail from a parking lot in the crater to the rim, up a couple flights of stairs, through a tunnel (bring a flashlight) and an old coastal artillery to the summit.
If you're looking for a vista that you don't have to hike far to get to, look no further than the hills above Makiki. The Punchbowl crater, home to a military cemetery, offers a panoramic view closer to Downtown. Pu'u Ualaka'a Park, also above Makiki, has a winding mountain road, Tantalus/Round Top Drive, and a number of hiking trails which provide a stunning view of southern O'ahu nearly 2,000 feet above sea level.
Another popular overlook is the Nu'uanu Pali Lookout, located 6 miles north of Downtown on State Route 61 (Pali Highway). The scenic vista, set between two incredibly high cliffs, provides a panoramic view of Windward O'ahu. The overlook is often buffeted by high winds, but the view is more than worth it.
If ocean scenery is more your speed, the rocky shoreline of the Makapu'u Point area is an excellent bet. In addition to the scenic beaches here is the Makapuʻu Point State Wayside, a roadside stop which offers an excellent view of Makapu'u Point and its lighthouse, a view up the Windward O'ahu coast, and if you're lucky, whales off-shore in the winter months. Nearby is the popular Halona Blowhole, one of the many blowholes (an underwater cave with a hole in the top, so ocean water blasts out the top) in this area, but the easiest to view due to the large parking area overlooking it.
Things to Do
Hawaii's year-round tropical weather provides perfect running weather all year, so bring your running shoes. Kapiolani Park and Ala Moana Beach Park are where most joggers in Honolulu congregate; the 4-mile loop around Diamond Head is also a popular and scenic route. If you're up for a challenge, Tantalus Drive above Makiki is a winding, two-lane road that is relatively safe for joggers.
Cycling around Honolulu's streets and bike paths can be a great way to see the city and stay in shape. There are several bike shops in the city that rent various types of bikes. You can also take Highway 72 to Waimanolo, east of Honolulu, if you want to get out on the open road.
Ice skating is probably the last thing you'd expect to be able to do in a tropical city, but the Ice Palace in Western Honolulu makes for the perfect getaway if the hot climate is too much for you.
On water
There are great surfing beaches around Waikiki. For lessons, beach boys give private surfing lessons daily at Waikiki Beach. A one hour lesson includes dry land and in-the-water instruction. Instructors teach paddling, timing and balance skills. No reservations required, just sign up at the stand on the beach located Diamondhead of the Waikiki Police Station. You can also try one of the many surfing schools in Waikiki.
There are also opportunities for snorkelling and scuba diving of all levels (beginners included).
Shopping
ABC Stores are located so that most hotels are within no more than a one-block walk. In fact, many locations are located in the shopping areas of the major hotels. They provide all manner of convenience store food, souvenirs, and merchandise, but the convenience does come at an extra cost. If you're looking for Hawaiian bath & body products, you'll find a variety of Forever Florals products at ABC Stores.
The International Market Place is shut down.
Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center is the main shopping mall in Waikiki, with levels of many tourist-oriented shops and restaurants. Currently undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation. Includes more than 100 shops and restaurants ranging from Cheesecake Factory to high-end boutiques (Hermes, Bvlgari, Fendi, Cartier etc.), to art galleries and lei stands. The Little Hawaiian Craft Shop on the upper floor is a good place to buy real Hawaiian and Tahitian-made crafts (koa wood, etc.) for slightly less than the fancier shops in the hotel malls.
DFS Galleria (Duty Free Shops) is a shopping mall built around a cruise theme. Included in the mall is one of the largest duty-free shops in the state. Due to its duty free nature, it is very popular with foreigners, especially Japanese. However, Americans can buy anything here as well, just be prepared to pay the tax as you normally would.
Waikiki Shopping Plaza on Kalakaua Avenue includes five levels of small shops, including a food court on the lower level. Downtown also has a few shopping areas. The Aloha Tower Marketplace on the harborfront next to Aloha Tower is popular with tourists. Between Downtown and Waikiki is the Ala Moana Center, the largest shopping mall in Hawaii and the largest open-air shopping center in the world. There are also the Victoria Ward Centers. For something truly unique, Chinatown has food and seafood markets, as well as many Lei (the ornamental flowered necklace).
Eastern Honolulu has a couple of regional malls, Kahala Mall and Koko Marina Center, with various large stores and movie theaters. Aloha Stadium Swap Meet every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday offers a chance to buy from local merchants and artists and get things for far cheaper than you can anywhere else.
Cool Places to Eat
My favorite places to eat:
Marukame Udon - 2310 Kuhio Ave
get the Niku Udon
Ono Seafood - 747 Kapahulu Ave, Apt 4
get the spicy ahi poke
Beaches
Waikiki Beach. As the tourist center of the Hawaiian Islands, this white sand beach, framed by hotels and Diamond Head as a backdrop, is easily the most crowded. Waikiki is popular with a wide crowd, as it's a excellent place for swimming, sunbathers, catamaran and outrigger canoes, as well as a great spot for beginner surfers and body boarders (and there are plenty of surf schools set up in Waikiki for lessons). What's remarkable is that even in Waikiki you can find a fairly quiet beach; it's just a matter of knowing where to look.
Kuhio Beach. With an offshore retaining wall, this is a calmer section of beach that's great for families and beginner surfers. Along Kalakaua Avenue are four stones known as the Ancient Pohaku (Wizard Stones) which are believed to hold spiritual healing powers. There is also a statue of legendary surfer Duke Kahanamoku located here,
Ala Moana Park, a green space with plenty of trees and grass as well as an nice sandy beach that's popular with the locals and is perfect for families or a calmer swim.
Hanauma Bay, which is set in the crater of an extinct volcano, now open to the sea and filled with a coral reef. This is not the place for a good swim and certainly not the spot for surfing, but the calm water and abundance of marine life makes it excellent for snorkeling and scuba diving. Even if you don't get in the water, the scenery makes it a great place to sunbathe or picnic, although you may find parking to be an issue.
Halona Beach Cove, known as "the Peering Place". It is a small, rocky cove that has good swimming with the surf is calm, but no lifeguards here means it's at your own risk. Nearby Sandy Beach does have lifeguards, and has been popular with surfers and bodyboarders for decades. On a calm day, it can be good for a fun day of swimming. Makapu'u Beach, just a little further up the road, is quite scenic. It tends to have very large waves, meaning it many not be the best place to swim but a fantastic place to surf.
Pearl Harbor
Located in Western Honolulu and accessible by Bus #42 or #20, is well-remembered for 'December 7, 1941— "a date which will live in infamy" (President Franklin D. Roosevelt), when an attack by Japanese forces killed over 2,000 personnel and brought the U.S. military into World War II. Today the harbor, still functioning as a navy base, is the site of several memorials honoring the fallen of that day and the rest of the war. The centerpiece is the USS Arizona Memorial, which was built over the sunken hull of the USS Arizona battleship; the resting place of many who died that day. The memorial itself is accessed after an introductory movie and a short ferry ride, and lists the names of those lost as well as a chance to view the wreck. Time-stamped tickets (free) are needed to access the USS Arizona Memorial and can be obtained on the same day (get there early, ticket office opens at 7:45am) or in advance online for a small fee
Scenery
It's Hawai'i, so there's no shortage of natural scenery, even near the big city. For those looking for expansive vistas, Diamond Head is a good starting point - this ancient volcanic crater dominates over Waikiki and the top offers an incredible view over the city. After driving through a short tunnel, you can hike up a 0.75 mile (1.1 km) trail from a parking lot in the crater to the rim, up a couple flights of stairs, through a tunnel (bring a flashlight) and an old coastal artillery to the summit.
If you're looking for a vista that you don't have to hike far to get to, look no further than the hills above Makiki. The Punchbowl crater, home to a military cemetery, offers a panoramic view closer to Downtown. Pu'u Ualaka'a Park, also above Makiki, has a winding mountain road, Tantalus/Round Top Drive, and a number of hiking trails which provide a stunning view of southern O'ahu nearly 2,000 feet above sea level.
Another popular overlook is the Nu'uanu Pali Lookout, located 6 miles north of Downtown on State Route 61 (Pali Highway). The scenic vista, set between two incredibly high cliffs, provides a panoramic view of Windward O'ahu. The overlook is often buffeted by high winds, but the view is more than worth it.
If ocean scenery is more your speed, the rocky shoreline of the Makapu'u Point area is an excellent bet. In addition to the scenic beaches here is the Makapuʻu Point State Wayside, a roadside stop which offers an excellent view of Makapu'u Point and its lighthouse, a view up the Windward O'ahu coast, and if you're lucky, whales off-shore in the winter months. Nearby is the popular Halona Blowhole, one of the many blowholes (an underwater cave with a hole in the top, so ocean water blasts out the top) in this area, but the easiest to view due to the large parking area overlooking it.
Things to Do
- First time visitors should be sure to book at least one luau. Some are better than others, check with your hotel concierge for recommendations.
- Sunset On The Beach. Since 2001, there have been free movies on the beach in Waikiki near the Honolulu Zoo. You can view a movie on an outdoor 30-ft (9 m) screen.
- Surf, The beach (Walk towards the ocean). Anytime. Waikiki is good for beginners and old hands alike. It doesn't have the killer waves like Pipeline, but it has nice small longboard waves right off the beach which is where the beginners lessons are. A bit of a paddle will bring you out to some moderate sized waves. There are several places to rent boards and hire lessons right on the beach, all of which open early, and there countless cheaper places to rent off-beach. Varies.
- Atlantis Submarines, Hilton Hawaiian Village, (toll free: +1 800 548-6262), Daily 9AM-3PM. Submarine tours off the coast of Waikiki, getting up-close to marine life, coral reefs, and shipwrecks. $99, $45 children.
- Na Hoku II, the beach in front of the Outrigger Waikiki Hotel. Sailing trips off Waikiki. Drinks are free. Try the sunset sail for spectacular views of the sunset. $30 for a 90 minute sail.
- Walk on the makai (ocean) side of the street between Lewers and Kapahulu. The makai side of the street has more cool shade from the sun, fewer cross streets with vehicle traffic, and far less touts attempting to hand you flyers to overpriced restaurants and activities.
- Stand Up Paddle Boarding (Paddle boarding in Hawaii), Kailua Beach, Hawaii, аn activity where you stand upright оn a ѕurfbоаrd аnd uѕе a lоng paddle to mоvе about оn tор of thе wаtеr. It саn be рrасtiсеd оn саlm waters, challenging wаvеѕ and еvеrуthing in between.
- Experience Hawaiian Cultural Sport "Outrigger Canoe Surfing". There are several companies who offer this service but Waikiki Beach Services, located in front of the iconic pink hotel, "The Royal Hawaiian, Luxury Collection" is the oldest and the most respected companies of all. Lead by the owner, Teddy Bush, his boys try to maintain the legendary "Waikiki Beachboys", and they will help you have the best time on the beach and in the water! They offer all the "Surfing" activities; Surfing Lessons and Stand-Up Paddling Lessons. They also provide Beach Umbrella & Chair rental, board rental, and "Beachboy Valet" service where you can spend half day exclusively with a Beachboy. He surfs with you, rides on the canoes with you and so forth. Just look up Waikiki Beach Services' website to learn more about the company and all the services they provide, or call (808) 388-1510
- Enjoy Live Entertainment at Night with Four Lads Unlike Las Vegas, evening entertainments are a very few in Waikiki, but currently there is a Beatles Tribute Band, "FOUREVER FAB" performing the "Best of the Beatles" live in Concert at the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani Hotel, located at 120 Kaiulani Ave., Honolulu, HI. 96815. Did you know George Harrison and John Lennon actually visited Waikiki back in 1964 and stayed at the Royal Hawaiian, Luxury Collection on May 2nd? During the show, there will be a tribute to the island. Ukulele will be played by George Harrison as he "LOVED" Hawaii and Ukulele. Call (808) 725-4136
Hawaii's year-round tropical weather provides perfect running weather all year, so bring your running shoes. Kapiolani Park and Ala Moana Beach Park are where most joggers in Honolulu congregate; the 4-mile loop around Diamond Head is also a popular and scenic route. If you're up for a challenge, Tantalus Drive above Makiki is a winding, two-lane road that is relatively safe for joggers.
Cycling around Honolulu's streets and bike paths can be a great way to see the city and stay in shape. There are several bike shops in the city that rent various types of bikes. You can also take Highway 72 to Waimanolo, east of Honolulu, if you want to get out on the open road.
Ice skating is probably the last thing you'd expect to be able to do in a tropical city, but the Ice Palace in Western Honolulu makes for the perfect getaway if the hot climate is too much for you.
On water
There are great surfing beaches around Waikiki. For lessons, beach boys give private surfing lessons daily at Waikiki Beach. A one hour lesson includes dry land and in-the-water instruction. Instructors teach paddling, timing and balance skills. No reservations required, just sign up at the stand on the beach located Diamondhead of the Waikiki Police Station. You can also try one of the many surfing schools in Waikiki.
There are also opportunities for snorkelling and scuba diving of all levels (beginners included).
Shopping
ABC Stores are located so that most hotels are within no more than a one-block walk. In fact, many locations are located in the shopping areas of the major hotels. They provide all manner of convenience store food, souvenirs, and merchandise, but the convenience does come at an extra cost. If you're looking for Hawaiian bath & body products, you'll find a variety of Forever Florals products at ABC Stores.
The International Market Place is shut down.
Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center is the main shopping mall in Waikiki, with levels of many tourist-oriented shops and restaurants. Currently undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation. Includes more than 100 shops and restaurants ranging from Cheesecake Factory to high-end boutiques (Hermes, Bvlgari, Fendi, Cartier etc.), to art galleries and lei stands. The Little Hawaiian Craft Shop on the upper floor is a good place to buy real Hawaiian and Tahitian-made crafts (koa wood, etc.) for slightly less than the fancier shops in the hotel malls.
DFS Galleria (Duty Free Shops) is a shopping mall built around a cruise theme. Included in the mall is one of the largest duty-free shops in the state. Due to its duty free nature, it is very popular with foreigners, especially Japanese. However, Americans can buy anything here as well, just be prepared to pay the tax as you normally would.
Waikiki Shopping Plaza on Kalakaua Avenue includes five levels of small shops, including a food court on the lower level. Downtown also has a few shopping areas. The Aloha Tower Marketplace on the harborfront next to Aloha Tower is popular with tourists. Between Downtown and Waikiki is the Ala Moana Center, the largest shopping mall in Hawaii and the largest open-air shopping center in the world. There are also the Victoria Ward Centers. For something truly unique, Chinatown has food and seafood markets, as well as many Lei (the ornamental flowered necklace).
Eastern Honolulu has a couple of regional malls, Kahala Mall and Koko Marina Center, with various large stores and movie theaters. Aloha Stadium Swap Meet every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday offers a chance to buy from local merchants and artists and get things for far cheaper than you can anywhere else.
Cool Places to Eat
- Hokulani Bake Shop, 2424 Kalakaua Ave Ste 1-2, +1 808 923-2253. Tucked away inside the shopping center across the street from the Waikiki police station is a little slice of heaven. Winner of the Food Network's Season 12 Episode 4 of "Cupcake Wars", there's no better treat after sunbathing or playing in the surf than one of these delightful little cupcakes.
- Waiola Shave Ice, 2135 Waiola Street. When in Hawaii, trying shaved ice is a must. Waiola is the oldest and by many accounts the best shaved ice shop. There are many flavors and toppings to choose from, from classic to the exotic. The original Waiola location as well as its second location at 3113 Mokihana St are accessible from Waikiki.
- Moose McGillycuddy's, 310 Lewers St (Across from kelly's), ☎ +1 808 923-0751 7:30AM-4AM (4PM-8PM 1/2 price drinks). Live music, daily specials, tasty adult beverages, ono pupu's, bikini contest, friendly atmosphere and staff. Huge selection of breakfasts, pupu's (appetizers), burgers and specialties. A Waikiki landmark for over 26 years.
- Blue Water Shrimp & Seafood Co., 2145 Kuhio Ave. Fresh Seafood plate lunch, spicy butter garlic shrimp, the bomb fish like Ahi, Mahi-Mahi, rice, corn on the cob, bomb burgers and last but not least crab legs! (CLOSED!!) $10-15.
- Duke's, 2335 Kalakaua Ave (At the Outrigger Waikiki Hotel), ☎ +1 808 922-2268, Named after legendary surfer Duke Kahanamoku. For meals and drinks right on the beach you can't beat Duke's. It's a family oriented bar and restaurant. Their Sunday live music is a local favorite.
- Eggs 'N Things , Waikiki Beach Eggspress, 2464 Kalakaua Avenue, ☎ +1 808 926-EGGS (3447). Daily 6:00 am to 2:00 pm 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm. This very popular breakfast/brunch spot attracts lines, so don't go if you're in a big rush. They make excellent omelettes and pancakes, and there are three syrups on the table; the coconut syrup is the best of the three. Portions are humongous, so go very hungry or order with restraint. Service is polite, and the vibe is convivial.
- Irifune, 563 Kapahulu Ave (North east corner of Waikiki), ☎ +1 808 737-1141. This funky little Japanese fusion joint is one of the best kept secrets in town. Be sure to try the garlic ahi. There can be a long line of locals on some nights. It's BYOB!
- Lu Lu's Surf Club, 2586 Kalakua Ave ((Across the street from the Honolulu Zoo)), ☎ +1 808 926-5222. 7AM-late. This is an enclosed, but open-air sports bar on across the street from the beach. moderate.
- Mikawon Korean Restaurant, 2345 Kuhio Ave (Not easily visible from the street - in a pedestrian mall about a half a block from Kuhio Ave), ☎ +1 808 924-3277. Mon-Sun 10 am - 10 pm. Very informal, with colorful testimonials in various languages papering the walls. Clientele is primarily Korean, and staff speak little English, so don't expect a lot of help in deciding what to order. Just get whatever seems good to you (some photos in the menu may help), and enjoy some delicious real Korean food.
- Ono Hawaiian Foods, 726 Kapahulu Ave, +1 808 737-2275, Easily the best place to get Hawaiian food in the islands -- popular withkama'aina and the savvy traveler willing to venture beyond the tourist track. Get the combination plate for a sampling of both kalua pig andlau lau (with some pipikaula, lomi salmon and poi on the side). An advice would be to get here early: as the best Hawaiian food restaurant it is very popular and waiting lines grow fast.
- La Mer, 2199 Kalia Road (Ocean front at Halekulani Hotel), ☎ +1 808 923-2311, 6PM-10PM. Award winning, 5 Diamond restaurant with French influenced Pacific Rim cuisine.
- Orchids, 2199 Kalia Road (Ocean front at Halekulani Hotel), ☎ +1 808 923-2311, 7:30AM-11AM for breakfast, 11:30AM-2PM for lunch and 6PM-10PM for dinner. Award winning Sunday Brunch is 9:30AM-2:30PM. Ocean front dining at Halekulani with stunning views of Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach.
- Top of Waikiki, 18F Waikiki Business Plaza, 2270 Kauakaua Ave, ☎ +1 808 923-3877. Dinner only. Hawaii's only revolving restaurant and offers views of both ocean and mountains. Best time to dine is at sunset. Serves pacific-fusion cuisine
- Wai'olu Ocean View Lounge. Trump International Hotel, 2nd floor, 223 Saratoga Rd. One of the best hidden spots to enjoy the sun set over lovely Fort DeRussy park and see the lights of Waikiki's skyline twinkle on while sipping the award-winning World's Best Mai Tai and listening to live Hawai'ian music. If it's a special occasion the chefs will dazzle you with a personalized dessert creation ... please treat them right.
- Sky Waikiki, Waikiki Business Plaza, 2270 Kalakaua Ave (one floor below the restaurant Top of Waikiki), ☎ +1 (808) 947-3414, Daily 4:30pm-2am (Fridays and Saturdays 9pm-midnight nightclub only). Dress code: resort attire. Nightclub attire for Friday and Saturday nights after 9pm. Reservations required for tables. No reservations for seating at the bar. Excellent pupus menu $8-16. $5 beer, $8-10 glass of wine, $8-18 top notch mixed drinks for the world class views.
My favorite places to eat:
Marukame Udon - 2310 Kuhio Ave
get the Niku Udon
Ono Seafood - 747 Kapahulu Ave, Apt 4
get the spicy ahi poke
